Old Vintage Authentic Tonga Island Tongan Ngatu Tapa Bark Cloth Large 7' x 4'

Description

Kanakajon's Mission:       "Spread the Aloha"
This authentic
Vintage Ceremonial Tongan Tapa Bark Cloth ("Ngatu")
is more than just a painted bark cloth sheet, it is a brilliant work of original island art. Through many hours (approximately 500) of labor intensive work, this extraordinary bark cloth was produced.
Many of the motifs repeated across this ngatu can be found on the
Royal Standard of Tonga
which is also imprinted in the Sila ‘o Tonga (
Tongan Coat of Arms
). Each quarter of the royal standard is represented in this ngatu; a cluster of three figurative stars make reference to the three main groups of islands in the Kingdom: Tongatapu, Ha’apai and Vava’u. These stars are grouped with a dove figure which represents peace, unity and Christianity. Another motif used in this ngatu is the crown which references the
Kingdom of Tonga
. The crown features a garland – a symbol of the judicial authority of the chief in the time before the kingdom. The garland also represents the royal dependence of God’s grace.The bark cloth is marked with text that reads "
Koe Kalauni
," or "The Crown" which is a direct reference to the Tongan monarchy.
The design is hand painted with locally-sourced organic natural pigments. This exceptional museum worthy piece is an important cultural treasure that displays wonderfully anywhere and would be a fine addition to your island paradise collection. The bark cloth is in excellent condition for its age (see photos), and measures a total of 34.875 square feet (7.75' x 4.5'). This original Tongan Ngatu Bark Cloth is priced at only .17 per square foot or 9 total. This ngatu has always been rolled up when not in use and has never been folded, therefore it has no unsightly crease marks. Mahalo and Aloha!
Make me a crazy offer. I just might accept it. I like to spread the Aloha as often as I can. If you make me laugh, you will increase your luck! Mahalo and Aloha! Kanakajon
Buy with confidence. Even though I'm just getting started as an eBay seller, your satisfaction is my top priority. Please contact me with any questions or concerns and I will respond in a timely manner to address the matter.
Please see photos for best description and email me with any questions prior to bidding or purchasing. While I strive to define my items with great care and detail, as the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words! So please, view the photos.
I accept only PayPal and payment is due within 24 hours of the purchase or auction close. The item will be shipped within 24 hours of receipt of payment. I ship only to the U.S. and Canada.
Thanks for looking!
Kanakajon’s Motto:        “ALOHA! =
A
lways
L
ove
O
ver
H
ate
A
lways!”